Phoenix alternate governor Atty. Raymond Zorilla (right) said that they also plan hospital visits to wounded soldiers from the Marawi conflict. Jerome Ascano

PROOF it’s not just about basketball, Phoenix is also doing its own share for a cause.

The Fuel Masters showed up in their PBA Governors Cup debut against KIA on Wednesday wearing a patch on the left side of their jerseys with the words ‘SUPPORT OUR TROOPS’ written in bold letters stitched on it.

Obviously, the gesture was the franchise’s way of showing support to Filipino soldiers currently involved in the ongoing armed conflict in Marawi City.

But then, there’s more to it than just playing with that prominent patch on the Fuel Masters’ jerseys.

Coach Ariel Vanguardia later disclosed the team is providing a whopping P100 million fund for Filipino soldiers who had served in the Marawi siege.

Vanguardia said the move was initiated by Phoenix owner Dennis Uy, who also serves as presidential adviser for sports.

Other than providing financial support, Phoenix also hopes to raise the morale of the soldiers by making hospital visits and personally see those who had been wounded.

“We’re looking at that aspect,” said Zorilla, “Our soldiers watched the PBA, so at least, makita naman nila that the PBA and Phoenix ay may suporta rin sa kanila.”

Vanguardia said Phoenix is doing very well in the country’s oil industry business that the company deemed it best to give back to the people as it celebrates its one decade of public service.

He said the Fuel Masters should likewise reciprocate the same for the franchise.

“The company is doing well, and so dapat ‘yung team also has to do well,” said Vanguardia. “We had three straight quarterfinals stint. Of course that would not gonna stop us from going to the next level.”

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Phoenix went on to defeat KIA, 118-105, to start its campaign in the season-ending meet on a high note.